Selecting Healthy Popcorn Options

Selecting Healthy Popcorn Options

Plain popcorn is a healthy, high-fiber whole grain. Unfortunately some popcorns have a significant amount of saturate fat, trans fat and sodium. Others have caramel, chocolate and other coatings added which increase the sugar content.

Here are some tips for selecting healthy popcorn.

• Serving sizes vary in microwave popcorn products. Most servings vary from three to six and a half cups. Five cups in an average serving.

• Trans fats. There are a number of products that still use partially hydrogenated oil, the source of artificial trans fat. Look for brands that do not contain partially hydrogenated oil.
• A number of products contain palm oil. Use of this product will increase the amount of saturated fat in the product. Look for products that have 1.5 grams of saturated fat or less.
• Look for products that have 300 milligrams of sodium or less per serving. Many products contain significant amounts of sodium. Remember sea salt does not mean low sodium.
• Look for a product that is labeled “94% Fat Free” or “No Oil” popcorn.
• While those popcorn products that have added chocolate, caramel or other sweeteners may taste good, the additions can lead to an increase in calories. Often the serving size of these products is smaller.